Representation in Action

Drawing on intensive observation of Canadian Members of Parliament in their constituencies, Representation in Action compellingly describes and accounts for the different ways MPs act as representatives of their constituents.

Members of Parliament (MPs) are often dismissed as “trained seals,” helpless to do anything other than take commands from party leaders. Representation in Action challenges this view of Canadian MPs and shows that the ways they represent their constituents are as diverse as Canada itself. Royce Koop, Heather Bastedo, and Kelly Blidook examine the types of activities Members of Parliament engage in, within their constituencies and in Ottawa, and they systemically determine what accounts for differences in style and agency. Drawing on original observational and interview research with eleven MPs and featuring detailed in-depth case studies, this book shows how MPs develop distinct approaches to the role of representative when addressing policy concerns, assisting constituents with problems, and connecting with those who elect them. The first book to use intensive participant-observation methods to study Canadian MPs and representation, Representation in Action is a compelling portrait of diversity in representational styles.